La Casanova

This charming single-storey stone cottage clings to a south-facing hillside, offering fabulous views of the surrounding countryside, packed with vines, olive groves and woodland in all shades of green, which can be admired from your terrace or private pool. Perfect for two or three guests who wish to taste Chianti life, the cottage is comfortably furnished in rustic Tuscan style and has a well-equipped kitchen – the owner is Italian celebrity chef Luciano Porciatti. But it’s the outdoor areas you’ll adore; a furnished terrace, wrapping around two sides of the building, blends into a private lawned area to the side, all overlooking the scenery below – an idyllic spot for an evening drink or al-fresco meal. La Casanova makes a great base for exploring this popular region. The town of Radda is just a five-minute trot, and has everything you’ll need to rustle up a delicious meal – from locally grown produce, to freshly butchered meat and the specialist products in the villa owner’s own deli, the renowned Casa Porciatti. There are plenty of restaurants, from pizzerias to fine-dining, too, while Florence and Siena can be reached within an hour. Ground Floor Lounge-Diner-Kitchen Sofa, table and chairs, fully equipped kitchen, two sets of French doors to terrace, main entrance. Bedroom 1 Double bed (cannot be converted into twins), wardrobe, chest of drawers, French doors to terrace. Bedroom 2 Twin bed, sofa, sideboard, bookcase, chair. Bathroom Shower, sink, WC. Our Thoughts You’re in celeb territory at chef Luciano Porciatti’s gorgeous villa – a neat little option for up to three people with some fantastic views. And you’re right on the doorstep of the lively market town of Radda, where you can stock up on gastronomic delights in the owner’s renowned deli, and get great wine straight from the vineyards and wineries of the Chianti region. Whether you cook for yourself, or choose to dine out in one of the local restaurants, you can be sure this is just the place to enjoy a taste of authentic Chianti. Notes Two bedrooms. One bathroom. The property is completely fenced. The owner and his sister live in separate houses next to the cottage and both speak some English, so are on hand to provide assistance. The owner might use the pool. There are two steps down from the cottage to the terrace. Pool The pool is 30 metres from the cottage, through the gate and across the drive, in the gardens of the main house. It is set in a brick and paved patio, surrounded by trees and shrubs, and furnished with sun loungers, and a gazebo with table and chairs. The water is accessed via metal ladder steps and there is a simple poolside shower. Pool size: 10m x 5m, 1.2m-2.3m. Open May through September, weather permitting